Modern cameras use a lens to focus an image onto light sensitive
film.
Early cameras used a "pinhole" in place of the lens. A tiny hole (less
then 1 mm), focuses light passing through it, much the same way a lens
does.

In this project you will construct a camera that uses a pinhole to
create
an image on photographic paper.

- Tape finished film holder to one end of camera body. Tape three
sides
leaving the top open. Note the film guides fold flat against the film
holder
and are inside the camera body. The film holder extends .5 cm above the
top of the camera body.

- Tape aluminum to front of camera with black card "sandwiched"
between
it and the camera. Make sure the pinhole is over the hole in the card.
The purpose of the black card is to reduce reflection from the shiny
aluminum.

- Attach a tab of tape to the back side of one end of the photo
paper.

- Slip the paper into the film holder on the camera. Make certain
the
sensitive (shiny) side of the paper is facing the pinhole. Leave the
tape
tab exposed at the top of the camera.

- Tape the film holder opening shut with black vinyl tape. Make
certain
that no light can enter around the tape.

- Place a small piece of tape over the pinhole.

Taking a picture

- Sit the camera on something steady pointed at the subject for your
picture. If it is windy place a small weight on your camera to keep it
from moving - your camera must not move while the picture is being
taken.

- Remove the piece of tape from the pinhole and start timing. Remove
the tape carefully - don't bump the camera. Here are some guidelines
for
taking your first picture.

- Bright sunlight: 45 seconds

- Very bright, hazy: 60 seconds

- Bright, cloudy: 120 seconds

- After timing the exposure, place the tape over the pinhole
and return the camera to the darkroom.

After developing the picture, make exposure adjustments based on how
bright or dark the final image is. If it is too dark then decrease the
amount of exposure time. If it is too light then increase exposure
time.

Equipment and supplies for developing black and white pictures are
available
from many photographic stores. Staff in these stores are usually very
knowledgeable
and will help you get started. Look in the yellow pages or Internet
under photography
supplies for a store near you.